Despite citizenship ceremonies moving online, Oliver RCMP worked to provide a special in-person moment for Anke Galardo.

Galardo became a Canadian citizen during Citizenship Week and Sgt. Don Wrigglesworth, Oliver RCMP Detachment Commander, put on his red serge to celebrate and take a photo with her.

鈥淭his is a huge milestone in my life, and I am proud to be a Canadian now. I am very grateful to Sgt. Don Wrigglesworth for taking pictures with me for this important event. My mom will be very happy to receive this picture,鈥� said Galardo.

The day was the culmination of Galardo鈥檚 journey to becoming a Canadian. One of the memories she shared of her journey was when she and her mother watched a Citizenship Ceremony in Penticton.

鈥淥ne day, I will see you on that stage when you become a Canadian citizen,鈥� Anke鈥檚 mother told her.

Due to COVID-19, all citizenship ceremonies are now held online, making the in-person celebration with Sgt. Wrigglesworth is a special one.

鈥淚 have taken part in many citizenship ceremonies where nearly 100 new Canadians from close to 50 countries celebrate their new life,鈥� said Wrigglesworth. 鈥淚t was an honour and very eye-opening to see how proud and happy these people were. It made me realize how lucky we are to be born in this country.

The RCMP congratulated Galardo on her citizenship and thanked Wrigglesworth for celebrating the pride of being a Canadian.